From Kathmandu Kickers Academy to National Teams; The Success Story of Pemba Bhote

Every footballer has a story, and for Pemba Nurbu Bhote, it started in a small ground in Kapan, Kathmandu. Born in Sankhuwasabha and raised in Kapan, Pemba grew up playing football with his brother at the handball ground in Kapan. While most kids loved scoring goals, Pemba enjoyed standing between the posts as a goalkeeper, a position many avoid. His family often scolded him for spending too much time playing, but his love for football never stopped.

His life changed when his maternal uncle, Chhring Bhote, heard about Kathmandu Kickers Academy and enrolled him there. This gave Pemba the chance to train properly and improve his game. At the academy, he learned discipline, teamwork, and new techniques. He also got the opportunity to work with top coaches like Leigh Manson, who helped him sharpen his skills. With hard work and guidance, Pemba started to grow into a confident and reliable goalkeeper.

Soon, his efforts paid off. He was selected to play for Machhindra FC’s U-16 team in the ANFA U-16 Youth League. Pemba impressed everyone with his strong performances and leadership on the field. At the end of the tournament, he was awarded the Best Goalkeeper Award in 2023, a proud moment for him and for Kathmandu Kickers Academy.

Pemba’s football journey has continued to grow since then. He represented Nepal at both U-16 and U-17 levels in SAFF and AFC competitions, gaining valuable international exposure. Football has also taken him abroad to countries such as Bhutan, Qatar, and Turkey, as well as Germany, with Kathmandu Kickers, where he learned from different football environments and cultures. Currently, he is in Sri Lanka with the Nepal National U-17 team, competing in the SAFF U-17 Championship and adding another chapter to his inspiring journey.

Recently, he added another achievement to his career by being one of the goalkeepers for Planning Boyz United in the B-Division League. The team went on to win the league and secure promotion to the A-Division, marking another proud chapter in Pemba’s journey.

What makes Pemba special is not just his goalkeeping ability but also his leadership and confidence. He is vocal on the field, guiding and motivating his teammates. Today, apart from playing, he also helps coaches at Kathmandu Kickers Academy, sharing his experience with younger players and giving back to the place where his journey began.

From playing at a small ground in Kapan to wearing the Nepal jersey and helping clubs win major tournaments, Pemba Nurbu Bhote’s story shows what passion, hard work, and the right support can achieve. He is proof that dreams can come true when you stay committed and never give up.

Also Read: How Football Academy Culture in Nepal Is Shaping the Future of Nepali Football